“No Minor Matter” Princess Anne Unable to Recall Accident, Royal Spokesperson Confirms
Princess Anne reportedly has no memory of the incident that left her hospitalized with minor injuries and a concussion, according to a recent report by The Sun. The accident occurred on Sunday at her residence when she was apparently struck by either a horse’s head or legs. This injury led to her current state of amnesia concerning the event.
Sir Timothy Laurence, the Princess Royal’s husband, and their children, Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips, were present during the incident. In a statement to the media on Tuesday, Sir Timothy said, “She is recovering well, thank you. She’s doing fine. Slow, but sure.” He expressed deep gratitude towards the medical and emergency teams, saying, “We are both profoundly grateful to the medical team and hospital support staff for their expert care—and to the emergency services who were all so wonderful at the scene”, via Vanity Fair.
The family has also appreciated the flood of supportive messages from across the globe. “We are both deeply touched by all the kind messages we have received from so many people near and far. It means a great deal,” he added, according to BBC.
Despite her reputation as one of the most diligent royals, Princess Anne will have to pause her duties for recovery. A palace spokesperson announced that, following doctors’ advice, her engagements for the upcoming week would be postponed. “Her Royal Highness sends her apologies to any who may be inconvenienced or disappointed as a result,” the spokesperson noted.
Concerns about the severity of Anne’s injuries were raised by former BBC royal correspondent Michael Cole during an appearance on GB News. “She has stayed overnight and I think that should be an indication that this was no minor matter,” he commented. Cole described Princess Anne as resilient, noting that her hospitalization in Bristol suggests the injuries could be serious.
The local community was alarmed when an air ambulance landed on her estate. A neighbor told The Daily Express, “I saw an air ambulance landing on her estate and I thought ‘Oh my goodness, I hope it’s not Anne.’ And then the police helicopter started circling about ten minutes later and I thought the worst.” Although the air ambulance was on site for approximately 40 minutes, it was unclear whether it transported her to the hospital.
Princess Anne received prompt medical care at the scene before being taken to a local hospital for further treatment. As the royal family and supporters await more updates, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the hazards associated with equestrian activities, even for the most experienced riders.